The 2018 Viper 640 Winter Cup was moved from its traditional home in Miami to the Sarasota Sailing Squadron this March 16-18 and was sailed as part of the SSS’s One-design Midwinter Regatta. 24 Vipers showed up for this multi-class event…the wind…not so much. On each of the three mornings, the easterly breeze steadily faded resulting in shore postponements every day. On Friday, the wind filled in around noon and the boats went to the course and sailed three races. Saturday’s start was even later and the second of the day’s two races was sailed in very light, marginal racing conditions. And that turned out to be it for the regatta as Sunday’s sea breeze didn’t fill in until well after the final race time.

Despite only having five races, the competition was fierce. The reigning North American Viper Championship team of the Brothers Eagan (Marcus and Andrew) and Jackson Benvenutti held a firm grip on the lead from the outset. With four races scored, they had three bullets and a second for five points (dropping a sixth in the final race).

2018 Winter Cup Winners Jackson Benvenutti, Andrew and Marcus Eagan.

A tie breaker for second with ten points was won by Geoff and Mary Ewenson sailing with Tyler Bjiorn. Third place went to Brad Boston, Curtis Florence and Dave Shriner.

Second Place: Tyler Bjiorn, Mary and Geoff Ewenson

Third Place: Dave Shriner, Curtis Florence, and Brad Boston

Fourth Place: Simon Jensen (2nd from left), Nicky Manson, and Peter Beardsley with SSS officials.

Fifth Place: Brian Harrison with SSS RC.

Displaying another case of “Viper Life,” the V 640 fleet shone as much ashore as on the water. Brad Boston had his Doyle Boston Sailmakers trailer fully stocked and entertaining the fleet throughout the weekend. The “Marblehead Youts” contingent made sure every Irish bar was frequented by the Viper folks on Saturday’s St. Pat’s celebration, and Travis Yates and the host Sarasota Sailing Squadron once again hosted an excellent event for ours and all the classes involved.

Results HERE.